Davis explains new Saints role

Former goalkeeper Kelvin Davis has taken the role of football development executive at Southampton, working closely with Claude Puel.

The long-serving Davis brought an end to his 22-year professional playing career in May during an emotional testimonial at St Mary’s.

The veteran of ten years and more than 300 appearances for Saints admitted that he was in talks with Southampton over a new role at the club and it seems the parameters of that role have now been defined.

The 39-year-old, who travelled out to Baltimore for Saints’ week-long pre-season training camp, has taken the position of football development executive – which will see him work closely with both manager Puel and executive director of football Les Reed.

He will focus most of his time on Saints’ youngsters who are out loan in the Football League, while he also works on his own coaching qualifications as he takes the next steps towards becoming a manager.

“It’s a very interesting role and it’s one I’m very excited about. It’s a new challenge for me and I’m very much looking forward to it,” Davis told Southampton FC’s YouTube channel.

“The main role for me now is to communicate with the manager, ensure that all the players in the first team are where they need to be and make sure there’s that link between the dressing room and the management staff.

“Being at the club for as long as I have and with the experience I’ve picked up, it’s important to pass that on to the younger players as they make their way towards the first team.

“I’m delighted to be staying with the football club. It’s a really exciting time for everyone concerned. I’m looking forward to playing a big part in helping the club continue its fantastic progression.”